masterthesis-playground/raft/corpus_old/topic=4__part=019__n=60.txt

[TOPIC] 4
[Stats] N=60 | Source=../data/original/reviews.tab


(1) This was my first trek ever. It took us 2 hours to climb to the top and started at about 3:30 am. It was more than everything I imagined. Watching Bali at the crack of dawn was peaceful, serene, most beautiful sights ever filling my insides with such joy and gratitude. The trek itself gets harder as you ascend but nothing too difficult to conquer. The dew at higher altitudes makes it hard to climb over the loose stones/ rocks but this trek is a must do for every non trekker with an adventurous spirit. Do not believe your guides when they say you're a minute away cause they're just keeping you motivated, sometimes as far as 40 minutes translates to one minute. :) Also, use Kintamani tours and refrain from private guides. The breakfast offered with the latter is banana sandwich only whereas you get banana pancakes and such with the former. It hardly mattered post the climb and a hot cup of coffee in the freezing cold but this tips for the foodies here.
(2) About 2/3 of the way into this hellaciously grueling sunrise climb (after 5 hours of scrambling up dusty, slippery trails in the dead of night) we were forced to light a fire and make camp due to dangerous winds. Be mindful that you may invest 12 hours in this horrendously difficult climb (up/down) only to have to turn around if the weather becomes too windy or otherwise inclement. This trek is easily the hardest one I've ever attempted. Do not attempt unless you are extremely fit and already engaging in *intense* cardio at least 3-4 times per week. Wear excellent hiking shoes, not runners, and do hire a guide as the trail can be confusing and dangerous. Bring 2-3L of water per person and leave some of it halfway up the trail. Plan on 6-8 hours up and an equal amount of time for the incredibly difficult descent. Book your massages for that night or the day after! The difficulty of this hike is not to be underestimated. you'll be clutching at vines and roots and slipping and falling from time to time.
(3) We drove ourself from Canggu to Kintamani around 02 am and rented a guide when we arrived. We were very lucky about the guide and had a lovely hiking to the top. The trip was 1,5-2 hours to the top, and it was a great experience. We were served a simple breakfast at the top with sandwich, egg, fruit and coffee - breakfast with a beautiful view! I recommend this trip for people that love a nice sunrise. Bring more clothes than a t-shirt, its a little bit cold on the top :-)
(4) The actual Mount Batur climb is beautiful - and the view from the top of the morning sunrise unsurpassed.\n\nThe organisation that runs the town, though, is a disgrace. Dubbed the 'Bali Mafia' this extortionistic 'association' owns all the tour guides that flock up the mountain each morning with tourists, controls all the businesses in the town, fixes prices, and abuses anyone that challenges them.\n\nOur tour guide was incompetent, unfit, had poor English skills and was only interested in our money. He slowed us down, barked rules at us, told us what we could and couldn't do, and physically grabbed my girlfriend to get his point across.\n\nThe association gives no choice of guide, refuses to allow anyone to climb without one, and mandates a guide-to-tourist ratio of at least 3-1 for large groups. This means that on a very busy morning with around 200 climbers, there were at least 75 guides clambering up the slopes for a ridiculous $60USD or so each.\n\nEverything about the association was creepy, and I wish I could recommend that people stay away, but the view really is beautiful.\n\nJust don't try to attempt to go up without one of their overpriced guides, or there'll be trouble!
(5) Very amazing and beautiful. The tracking by foot is quite heavy and through the less oxygen the more you come up the mountain it is quite a heavy track . It takes 8-9 hours by foot to come up but it is definitely worth it! The view once you are up there..... omg ... the definition of powerful Bali experience! You all will live it . There are more other possibilities to come up and you should ask any tour and Trecking guide for assistance. Any Balinese who is sticking around and they will all help and be happy to earn some money for their families. Support them instead of the big companies. They are really poor and need it .\n\nEnjoy the beautiful experience
(6) It was an early 4am hike from the bottom to catch the sunrise. The hike was not enjoyable as you have to share the difficult trail with tons of motorbikes spewing pollution in the thin air while you needed fresh oxygen.\nSunrise at the top was breathtaking but it was also very crowded.
(7) We started our climb after 2hrs travel from Kuta Beach Hotel, at 4.30am.\nThe sky was filled stars. The urgency to drop our bag pack, open our tripod to shoot the morning star trails.....was in my heart. But, we proceed to climb the trail in darkness. With my headlamp, I started our climb...woooo never ending spot lights all the way to the top. Two third uphill, the trail was rocky and steep. Legs were soften and my guide hold me all the way. He was there to balance my climb and not \pull\". Timing is very important, unfortunately, i missed the dark sky. My regular exercise does payoff, about 1.5hrs climb we reached the top of the mountain. The sun was peeping out of the horizon.....shoot a couple of test shot and the sunrises. As soon as the sun peep out, a thick haze flow by and well, nothing to see.\nIt's a good climb, I said to myself.\nWell done."
(8) I just did this sunrise trek today. It was the most physically challenging and scary experience I've had. Most of what has been said in these reviews is accurate. The entire climb is steep. You will be very sweaty. It requires moderate fitness and some rock climbing/scrambling skills. Trekking shoes and a stick will make things much easier for you.\n\nI think it needs to be emphasized that there are times during the trek that, unless you are used to climbing tall steep mountains and have no fear of heights, you will be terrified. Toward the top (I did pasar agung trail) there were some rock faces with few grips and I had fleeting thoughts of \why did I do this?\" Multiple experienced climbers said this was harder than they expected. The view from the top was amazing and the sense of accomplishment was awesome but worry about descending was overwhelming because of the mountain's steepness. It was actually less difficult than I anticipated though it helped that my guide literally held my hand during tough areas.\n\nIn conclusion, there is an element of suffering involved in this climb (mostly mental) but in all it was an amazing experience and I'm glad I did it. I think most average fit people though aren't aware of how truly scary and potentially dangerous it can be and I would only recommend it to my most athletic and daring friends."
(9) Apart from the early morning start, it was not as demanding a day as I thought it was going to be. Unfortunately it was cloudy on the day, but we managed to get a good view on the way down. It seemed a bit expensive to pay for guides for what was a straighforward climb.
(10) Batur is miracle of nature. We decided to go there for the sunset and go back after it is dark. This was great decision as we were only three people up there. Batur was mysterious, misty and seemed dangerous. It also offered great views, steam coming out from ground and deep crater.\n\nThe most popular way to visit Batur is 1:30 am trekking to see sunrise. I suppose it may be bad experience as we saw what is left on the top. Large piece of this amazing place is spoiled by tourists and turned into large latrine :( No one really maintain any facilities on top and thousands of people go there to see sunrise.\n\nAdvice:\nyou must have a guide, you MUST have good boots - trekking is on sharp volcanic rock, ascend is steep and not for children (fortunately ours decided to stay at hot springs), descent after its dark may be dangerous if not led by guide.
(11) Visited Kintamani Village and had a stupendous view of Mount Batur. An enormous beautiful giant - best way to describe.\nAlthough you are not allowed to go close to the top, you can hike or have a view from nearby places.
(12) We climbed Mt Agung back in 1983.\n\nWe were two fit adult males in our early 30's, and two ten year old sons.\n\nSeems like the rules have changed since then.\n\nWe got our information from a travel guide book, planned our day, and took off from Kuta with a driver (Madé) whose services we had hired several times. He drove us to a car park at the foot of the southern climbing path. No temple, no buildings, just a lava strewn car park.\n\nWe had packed knapsacks with food and drinks, and took some warm clothes. We wore sturdy shoes and arrived at the car park around sunrise.\n\nThere, Madé let us out of the van and said he would collect us mid afternoon, which he did. We had no guide. There was a small worn track we followed to the top. There are places where the going is quite steep, and some places where the rock path is very rough and rocks were sharp.\n\nThe climb was hard, but we made it in about 5 hours.\nAt the top, we found some holes at the edge of the crater venting steam and hot sulfur gas. We thought we were real adventurers, until we were approached by a young Balinese girl (about 14 years old), trying to sell us canned Coca Cola or bottled water. To our surprise, we found out she climbs the volcano alone early most mornings and sells drinks to un-prepared climbers. We made a donation to her for her story, then headed down to meet our driver.\n\nI would attempt it again if I were younger.
(13) We went there in the afternoon had lunch at the restaurant in front of the lake. Weather was good and the sky was clear so we were able to see all the three mountains standing in a row with the lake in the middle. The view was amazing, the temperature was quite cool and wind was pretty strong up there.
(14) I have completed a few hikes/treks around the world. From countless hikes in NSW, to the Kokoda Track and Everest/ Kalapathar. This one, certainly was not the toughest, but it was unexpectedly difficult and I was caught off guard. I did little research (my fault) so it was challenging, worst of all I talked my girlfriend into doing it with me. She found it very tough, well she certainly felt the need to remind me over and over again it was her last hike. Never the less we pressed on, with the gentle guiding hand of our guide. We were in an overall team of about 20 people and every pair had a guide, more like a sky hook, at every step up or down there was always an extended hand to help us. The climb up was more daunting, as it was dark, the night made the terrain appear more violent. On the way down the terrain seemed less daunting as you could see where you were stepping.\n\nArriving at the top, wiped my memory clear of the challenges we faced on the way up, my girlfriend all of a sudden became quiet, and the view nearly knocked us over. We had a relatively clear day, with a view over most islands, the sun rose, and there was this aura of silence, I think it was because there was little words could really do to describe it.\n\nMy advice, pack for all types on the way up, you will get hot, but the moment you stop it gets cold, at the top is quite chilly, so have a jacket for between 10 - 15 deg cel. On the way down, be prepared to get dirty in the mud, its hot and if it's clear you will need sun protection. Take atleast 2 L of water per person and try and be well rested the day before. It is challenging, especially if you suffer a fear of heights or vertigo. If you do do it, you would be crazy not to use a guide, and like the rest of the trekkers, we went with Wayan, and like the rest of the trekkers, we highly reccommend him, his english is great, his knowledge of the area is fantastic, as his family has long lived in the area. His family, who join you, are also fantastic. It is a tough job and they do it with much care and effort, very rewarding of a tip, in my opinion.\n\nAt the bottom, once you have made it back to the entrance of the temple, do not forget to turn around and take in the view of the temple and the mountain in the brackground. It reminded me of a view from Tomb Raider or Indiana Jones.\n\nWayans number is +6285237250607, or email wayan.idguides@gmail.com be sure to book in advance, as we nearly missed out due to a festival or something.\n\nFYI when we reached the bottom, my girlfriend commented, \that hike wasn't so bad, well the view made it worth it. \""
(15) I think I went on the wrong day, 1st January. Seemed like everyone and their wife was there. There are quite a few locals selling you stuff but I didn't find them pushy. After being in Bali five weeks I do think this is one of the things you should see whilst you are here.
(16) We had a Mt. Batur Trekking.\nYou will be amazed by its beauty once you reached the top😍😍\nLovely, and had a precious moment with your love ones.\n\nBefore you go for trek, first must have stretching😂\nBring water and extra towel because you will be sweating all the way😂😂😂\nThere are also monkeys on the top, that will be joining your breakfast. They are friendly compared with the monkey forest. They will just grab your food and water bottles. And you will have a chance to take selfies 😁
(17) We did the sunrise trekk, that means you watch the sunrise from the creater.\nYou get picked up (Ubud) about 02:00 and get breakfast and info, then you start the trekk itself at about 03:30.\nBe advised that you will be walking in complete darkness with only flashlights to light the way.\n\nThe trek up was very exhausting for me, but i had a cold and slightly fever when i did it.\nIf you have time try to take a break and watch the night sky if it's clear weather, it's completely amazing and you can see the entire milky way with out any problems.\n\nLike i said it's a tough walk (Atleast if you have fever doing it!) but the sight from the top made it well worth the trouble. At the top there are good slops to sit and wait for the sunrise, also there are wild monkeys there that can make the morning photos over the clods very good.\n\nDownside was that our guide wanted 150.000 IDR if we wanted to walk around the crater. 150k is extremely much in local value scene a medium income per day in Indonesia is about 6-7$.\nAnd this was per person....\n\nThe trip (Inc Breakfast, transport and guide) can be bought for as low as 200.000 IDR per pax in Ubud, most agency's start at 300.000, but don't do anything higher then 250.000.\n\nThe walk down was a breeze, but lots of small rocks that can make you lose your fotting, so don't relax too much!\n\nIt really is an amazing experience, but you need to have some basic fitness to enjoy it, it's not a little stroll in the park.
(18) The power of nature reminds us how weak we are, It puts us back in our right perspective. Living and dealing with others everyday gives us an illusion that we are strong and powerful this is why we have to see the power of nature from time to time. It is a slap to our face telling us to wake up and know who we really are. No matter how strong you are either in wealth, power or anything else, when we face nature we have to bow down for its glory and might. I love this mountain it stands like a king alone in the middle and other mountains are guarding him from far. You must see it!
(19) This mountain is only 1,717m to the summit (crater top). Though it was quite dusty as it is super dry, many people of all ages can achieve this climb. Bit slippery in bits where ground was dusty, easy slow climbing. Book a private guide if you do not want to climb with too many people, there are alternative routes.
(20) We booked a guide through Tour East Asia, the 1:30 am wake up was hard but we were able to sleep in the car on the way, took about 2 hours from our hotel in Tanjung Benoa.\n\nWhen we arrived the the main starting point, our guide stopped to let us go for a toilet break, it was extremely busy but he told us we were going to drive a bit further on to a different starting point with a lot less people. He told us that there are 4 different routes.\n\nIt was pitch black, so we were given flash lights and then followed our guide. At first he was quite fast but after a little while when we needed a quick break he realised we weren't as fit as him so slowed down and assured us not to rush and take our time.\n\nIt was harder than I thought it was going to be and a lot steeper. When we booked we were told it was very easy, I wouldn't say that was true. I wore trainers but the grip wasn't great so I slipped a lot on the loose rocks and sand. There were a lot of steep rocks to climb, especially as you get closer to the top.\n\nWe got to the first sunrise point, our guide asked us if we wanted to stop there or go the extra half an hour to the top. We weren't going to give up though. We decided to do the extra half hour. At this point it was very busy, I guess all the routes join at this point, the last 20 mins were very steep, the sand was very loose, so very slippery.\n\nOnce were were at the top, we just about made sunrise. Our guide took us to a quieter spot, got us a blanket and we sat down. It was very foggy at first but the view was insane! It made the the whole trek worth it! It was very cold up there, once you stop the exercise, I would recommend long sleeves, maybe a jumper and trousers. If possible take a blanket.\n\nWe were given a cup of coffee and breakfast (slices of bread, eggs and some cheese) and we watched the beautiful sunrise.\n\nAs we started our descent we stopped at the monkey point, took a few selfies with the monkeys, and taken to the sauna and steam points. The views were amazing.\n\nThe walk down was again a little hard (although much easier than the way up) because it was so slippery.\n\nOverall was an amazing experience, definitely worth doing, especially on a clear day!
(21) Make sure your trip in Bali will make one full day tour to Kintamani, it's arround 2 and half hour drive straigh away from arround Kuta but don't worry it will not make you boring trip because there are lot of nice thing to see on the way to Kintamani as Silver village, Ston carving village, wood carving village, rice terrace village, and you will arrive there arround 1-2pm and that's mean best time for your lunch, because in this restourant you will see tne beautifull mountain standing on lake...
(22) Mount Batur, also known as Kintamani volcano, has been the most favorite tourist destination in the central mountains area of Bali. With the magnificent view of its caldera, and also the beauty of Lake Batur which fills the large part of the caldera, the crater of Mount Batur is the central interest of the place which is estimated to have 13 square km size.\n\nThe view was the main reason to come here for me personally - Breathtaking!!!. Surrounded by the captivating nature of Mount Batur, you will find plenty more reasons to linger in the crater itself, and be sure to also take in the joyous winding road along the lake shore to Toya Bungkah, Pura Ulan Danu Batur, or even the hot springs...
(23) Was contacted Ari via WA +6281337443553 that passed by my cousin Michael, this was one of the top experiences we had in Bali during recent holiday. While the hike is a little bit tired by hiking 2 hours in the pick dark, luckily I have awesome guy Ari who leaded us us safety up and down. Every single step Ari always take care both of us and sometime in the difficult path offered a help.\n\nThe view from the top is probably the most scenic experiences in my life, I have ever seen in our Asian trip this year. This was the thirds mountain hike I did in this holiday but Mount Batur is the scenic one. So glad I did it with my husband and a best guide ever I meet in the word, this becomes special memorable experience for us. Ari was our tour guide and he as our host for this tour.\n\nHe is amazing guy, he has full knowledgeable, cares, patient and takes phenomenal pictures all the trip. He is a really cool guy, I and my husband definitely recommend him as Mount Batur Guide. Easily engage his service via WhasApp. Thank you very much Ari for a great trip in Mt. Batur.
(24) Loved this experience Wow sundowners and this was awesome. Really incredible. Mother Nature at her angriest best hectic must see
(25) Mount batur sunrise hiking tour starts at 1-2am in midnight depending upon your hotel location from where driver pickups you and you reach at zero point around 3.30am. You should book a local guide a day before. Tracking starts at 3.30-4am. Total 5 km up and 5 km down. It takes 1.5-2 hours one way depending upon your strength and speed. Local guide provides torch and water while hiking and breakfast at the top. There is so cold atmosphere literally freezing at the zero point and the top so you need a jacket.You can buy a jacket or blanket on rent also there. The breakfast contains bananas, oranges,boiled eggs and bread. You can buy hot tea or coffee at high cost. You must have good hiking shoes. Total itinerary from pickup, guide, water,breakfast and drop back at hotel costs around 600-700.000 idr depending upon how you can bargain. Certainly not for elderly, children and weak people because it is really tough challenging track. But it is definitely worth when you see the views on the top which are really amazing and wonderful!!
(26) Great experience to climb up a live volcanoe\n\nHowever it is not an easy climb especially if you go up in the early hours of the morning. I did it in trainers and slipped many times so hiking boots would be better. Make sure you guide provides you with a walking stick and torches.\n\nWe climbed up in shorts and t shirt as we were getting quite warm (and used to British weather) but once at the top you certainly need some warmer clothing.\n\nYou can buy hot and cold drinks on the top and cook eggs from the hot steam which is cool to see.\n\nWe walked back down the crater side and seen lots of monkeys\n\nThis is very popular on Sundays with tourists and locals
(27) We spent some magical hours exploring and taking photographs. Don't bother with the guide just immerse yourself (literally) and feel the magic. Do swim in the pool, the water is beautiful and is supposed to have many beneficial effects. And spend time on the stepping stones. When it was time to eat we went outside to Good Karma which we had been told was as good as the restaurant inside but a good deal cheaper. We enjoyed it.
(28) We visited during the day (not the sunrise trekking) and there were only 2 people there except us. We \had to\" hire a local guide, but all was pleasant and polite and we ended up tipping our guide because he was really nice and considerate and helpful."
(29) Although I loved the view when I got to the summit and enjoyed the thrill of achieving the sunrise hike to the top, it was extremely hard going.\nBali Eco is a great way to do the tour especially if you are travelling by yourself. They seemed like the only company leading hikers up the mountain that had a few guides per group so the slow ones (me) still had someone with them while the other hiked up ahead. While they give you boiled eggs, bananas and cheese sandwiches at the top (lots of flies all over the sandwhiches everywhere at the top) , I would recommend taking some of your own snacks for the journey.
(30) Joined Bali Eco tour for a sunrise trek and they are very professional. Our group consist of 10 pax and they have 3 guides to follow us through. So regardless if you are fast or slow, you have a guide looking after you. Whether you catch a sunrise or not doesn't really matters as reaching the top with spectacular view and fresh air makes you think everything is worth it. Cool weather in June.
(31) Woke up early for a walk before the sunrise and it was all worth it. The review needs atleast 100 characters and that why I am typing the rest :P
(32) The volcano was included in a tour. Unfortunately we had bad weather that day and so when we arrived, the volcano was covered in mist so you wouldn't know it was there. I'm sure it would be quite spectacular on a good day. Only one restaurant there, where do I start!! Only one choice of menu which was the \all you can eat\" buffet. The buffet including tea or coffee was 150k which was pricey considering the standards and choices. My gripe is that the place seemed really dirty, no cleanliness. Tables were wiped down with a cloth that didn't look like it had been washed in ages. When I asked for a cup and saucer to have tea as they had run out, they took one off a table that had just been used, rinsed it in a bucket, dried it with a towel and gave it to me to use. I decided against the tea! The food choice wasn't bad but it did make you question whether it was ok to eat!!! Their standards are definitely below par! Also the 30k per person charge to just drive on the road was a rip off. Do we charge tourists to use our roads to view London landmarks- answer no!!!"
(33) The must do activity to do while you are in bali. Wonderful sunrise view from the top of the volcano. You can also see monkeys on your way down.
(34) batur mountain is 4km hike from the starting point. it was good hike and the last 800m are kind of steep. but everybody who is active person can make this hike. it is absolutely worth it. because the sunrise you will see up there is breath taking. also you can hang out there with local monkeys, which they are waiting for you to feed them with your breakfast leftovers.
(35) Pay the national park ticket seller as you reach the caldera rim - Go down the hill to Toyah Bunka - The area around the hot springs has been totally destroyed by a series of kitch swimming pools and ridiculous entrance fees - A few years ago there was a free natural hot spring and a beautiful beach complete with ducks - Make sure you visit the FREE geo museum at Kintamani
(36) We arranged a private sunrise tour with our driver who arranged with a guide from the local area (I was told the guide must be a local).\nWe left 30 mins before all the other tours started which was great. There wasn’t too many people at the time which can cause a traffic jam because half way there, the path gets narrow and rocky. It was quite cold at the top. The sunrise was amazing to see. You can see many monkeys up there too. It was a great experience! I highly recommend this.
(37) We just when for a view of Mount Batur from the balcony of the busy buffet restaurant. With young children it was going to be too much of an effort to actually climb the mountain even with a guide.\n\nInstead this became a late lunch stopover when we hired a driver to show us part of the island. This was one of the stops.\n\nIt is always fun to see a volcano whether active or not and get to appreciate the nature of your surroundings. The buffet lunch at the restaurant was not much to write home about but it is busy because it gives you a chance to admire the scenic view.\n\nBe aware of the hawkers outside the place who can be insistent that you buy the usual tourist tat.
(38) If you're into a bit of a challenge along with being out in nature and a breathtaking view, then the hike up Mount Butar is definitely up your alley.
(39) There would be hardly any tourist who had missed this place. This place is located at northern part of bali. First you need make a decision if you want to view the volcano or climb up to volcano. If you are healthy person, ready to walk for long and interested in climb, you need to be well plan. If you belongs to lazy people like me, you can take taxi to the restaurant where the best view of the mount batur is there. Every taxi driver knows this. The place is quite windy and can be quite cold too even in afternoons. Better to take light jackets. Topmost part of the restaurant is open and gets the best views. And of course you need to eat something from the restaurant in exchange! Not that expensive.
(40) I contacted Komang via whatsapp +6281239020556 and everything go beyond expectation. Although I loved the view when I got to the summit and enjoyed the thrill of achieving the sunrise hike to the top, it was extremely hard going. Hired a private tour is a great way to do the tour especially if you are first experience climbing an active volcano. The first 30min was ok, gentle climb up. But then in the dark (we started at 4am to get up there for sunrise) with loose rocks and step climb it got difficult. It was like climbing deep steps.\n\nThe guide had to hold my hand because I was finding it difficult to get a grip on the rocks. Once we got up there the view was epic! We were given eggs and banana sandwiches. We did have some lovely coffee while seeing the sunrise. Highly appreciate the guide, Komang, who took care of us to the entire journey.
(41) I did the sunrise trek. It is worthwhile if you like climbing/trekking but be prepared for an early start (my hotel pickup was at 2am) you will trek to near the top to view the sunrise just below the summit, or go for the summit depending on what your guide and the rest of the group if trekking as a group. Going the extra 15 mins for the summit was well worth it in my opinion. Price for the guided trek is advertised at around US$40-45 or IDR400,000 but was able to negotiate for IDR350,000 easily (there are many different tour companies that offer Mt Batur trek). A basic breakfast is included and coffee is an extra $2. You will need a reasonable level of fitness and I recommend bringing a headlamp torch if you have one. Well worth it.
(42) On the bus to the zoo we were advised that due to a change in government regulations they could no longer accept US dollars even though all marketing stated USD and we had to pay in Rupiah. The cost in Rupiah was $5.2 M however the advertised cost in USD when converted to Rupiah was only $3.2M so a price hike of almost $150 USD. They agreed to accept the advertised price. However when I was sitting down to dinner with my wife and kids they came up and acused me of mis counting the money at cashier and short changing them $1M Rupiah. This is the only time while in Bali I have felt I was being scammed. Not good Bali Zoo.
(43) We did the sunrise hike with Bali Trekking tours and I'm so glad we did. The trail itself was really difficult, but only because there was so much loose gravel and we could not stop slipping. Going up was almost easier than going down due to this. It took us exactly 12 hours to complete the hike. Our hiking guide ensured our perfect timing for the sunrise at the top of the mountain and the view was breathtaking. Best sunrise view I have ever experienced. The hike is definitely not for the faint of heart, it was chilly, windy, exposed, long and a bit treacherous at time...but totally worth it!
(44) Sunrise trekking up Mount Batur was definitely one of the highlights of our visit to Bali. There are many places in the town where you can arrange for a pick up from your hotel and transport to the starting point with a local guide to accompany you.\n\nIt is a lovely activity and is worth the early morning start.
(45) Our family has climbed Mount Batur multiple times over 28 years of visiting Bali. We intended to do it again this year. We drove to the base of the mountain where we were met by the Mount Batur Trekking Association. We had every intention of hiring a guide to take us up, but had a very bad experience trying to engage this group. They charge extortionist rates, but more troubling, we felt extremely uncomfortable in dealing with them. We couldn't get back into our car fast enough, they circled our vehicle, shouting at us as we drove away. We decided not to let this terrible experience ruin our day. We drove to one of the local temples close to the lake, parked our car and hiked up a steep road to the rim of the original crater. We walked along the rim for 30 minutes or so, enjoyed the views and seeing the villagers as we walked. As we walked back down to our car, we discovered a bat cave that we had not noticed on our hike up.
(46) Although a lot of people said that it is easy, it isn't for people who don't exercise often. My girlfriend was literally dragged up to the peak and I heard there are many others who had the same situation.\n\nHowever, if you do exercise regularly, it will be an easy trek with beautiful surroundings. I couldn't comment much on the sunrise because we didn't reach the peak before the sunrise but we were near the peak and it was spectacular. Would definitely try to conquer this Mountain in future for the beautiful sunrise.
(47) It was very challenging, really steep, but it was all worth it! A driver picked us up at 3:00am and drove us to mount batur. We then reached the summit (we arrived around 5:45am). They served us breakfast. It's toasts with bananas. Nothing fancy. Bring you own snacks if you are picky. But be careful, monkeys might take it away! Bring your toilet paper and be ready to pee in the bushes. ;)\n\nThe views is amazing. It's all worth it. :)
(48) very far from downtown bali (around 3 hours) but the view is stunning and worth the trip. don't miss is if you are in the region. You can also stop by the Tegalalang rice field in the middle of the trip, which is nice and fun but not as WOW as Batur.
(49) We were very excited to climb Mt Agung, but found the experience lacking for a number of reasons. First and foremost, our guide Wayan was absolutely awful. He barely spoke to us the entire climb; regularly took breaks to have a nap; and, worst, in the difficult upper section of dangerous rock climbing, he went too far ahead of us so that we had no idea what the best route was to take. This is a big deal when scaling an unfamiliar rock face, in the dark, with only a headlamp to guide you. Despite this, we were excited to reach the top to see the wonderful sunrise, but were again disappointed by the cramped area at the summit, where all of the guides huddled in a corner smoking, and our advertised breakfast consisted of tea and packaged cookies. Let's be clear, because this review sounds very negative: we are avid hikers, very fit, and love mountains. This experience was just not at all what we were expecting - the path up the mountain is not particularly scenic, and our guide did not give us any information about the cultural and religious significance of the volcano, which we were looking forward to hearing. We had the exact opposite experience on Mt Rinjani on Lombok a few days later, and would highly recommend doing this trek over Agung if you are thinking of just doing one. Or, if you do Agung, make sure in advance you have an excellent guide.
(50) W-O-W! I stayed in Candi Dasa - which was far from Mount Batur so I had to wake up at 2:30 am for a trek (hike up the mountain) that started at 4 am. I was excited (even though I didn't bring my hiking shoes - lesson learned for next time). It was soooooo worth it. I don't know about first time trekkers or people who have never worked out before - it may be too much. Highly recommend the hot springs resort and a massage afterwards for recovery.
(51) There's a few different ways to go about climbing Mount Batur. We opted to stay near the base of the volcano and have a private guide take us up. It was more costly, but totally worth it! We took a route on the east side, which had two different paths- easier and longer, or shorter and harder. We went for the shorter route, no regrets- was hard work, but I really enjoyed the climb. The sunrise view at the top is incredible! And after you've had tea/coffee and breakfast we went for an explore, there's some cool views, a massive cave with a temple in it, and monkeys! 100% would recommend!
(52) Worthwhile and breath taking scenery once you trek up to Mount Batur. A local guide is a must to help you navigate the steep and rock mountain. Do prepare yourself with a good pair of walk shoe. There will be local selling drinks and snack to you. We also saw monkeys scavenging food and might take yours if you are not careful.
(53) I recomend you to take this treking to mount Batur. The sunrise on the top is fantastic. It is very crowdy, but on the top there is enough space for everyone.
(54) Not an easy trek but soooo worth the stunning sunrise experience and beautiful view on top of the world. We were lucky that the weather was perfect so we could see the almighty Agung as well as Mount Rinjani and lake Batur of course. Just wowww!
(55) We started at 5 AM with the trekking. Our hotel Segara was close to the starting point. (by car it was not more than 10 minutes). It was very crowded. I think more than 100 people were climbing up. That was an experience in itself. Everyone had a lighter (provided by the guide) so that gave a \ seven dwarfs\" king of feeling. We paid around 350.000 R. per person, that is around 20 Euro. This was including breakfast on the top, but you have to pay extra for the tea and coffee!\nNice experience, but the crowds take away the charme."
(56) Be warned - this is a challenging climb for anyone more accustomed to well-made footpaths.\n1. For a start you will likely be climbing in the dark - so bring a torch/flashlight. A head torch best.\n2. The terrain is slippery black volcanic rock - so wear sturdy hiking shoes\n3. It hurts when you slip over - so consider wearing long sleeves, gloves etc\n4. It's quite crowded - so be prepared to be held up on the climb and descent by slower individuals. Leave early to give yourself plenty of time to get to the summit.\n5. The descent is tough on the knees - so consider taking a hiking pole.\n6. It gets chilly at the top - so bring a jacket to wear.\n\nYou can then enjoy the great sunrise view from the top, which makes the effort of getting there all worthwhile.\nBut don't underestimate the climb and descent as we did!
(57) We visited the Volcano to see the sunrise. Well worth the visit even after an early 1:30th start. The walk up was challenging and a good level of fitness is recommended as the gradient is steep with many boulders on route. On the top the view is amazing and the monkeys are adorable. Also worth taking are hiking boots, walking polls and a torch.
(58) Batur trekking was the mostly planned and awaited program of our Bali tour.To our great delight,the weather was fine.We were picked up from Kuta at 1.00 am on 18th February and the trekking started around 3.00 am.It was not as much difficult as expected but the final part was bit difficult.Because of some clouds we could not see the entire sun but the panorama and the photos that our guide took were BREATHTAKING!We also saw the volcanic smoke.The descent was way easier.Though February is said to be rainy it did not rain at all in Mount Batur. Prepare yourself with good sports shoes and jersies. Batur trekking made our Bali trip even more memorable and nostalgic! ABSOLUTELY RECOMMEND!
(59) We read in our Lonely Planet that it would be possible to hike Mount Batur on our own but that the guides would tell us that we would need one, but we should ignore them.\nEveryone: THIS IS NOT TRUE!\n\nAs many other mentioned, this whole town is run buy a mafia. The word mafia is not understated.\n\nWe arrived with our bikes and discovered a path on our map, that was not guarded by the guides. We met other Austrians (3 familiies with 2-3 children each) and decided that we would hike up this path. But as soon as we entered the path, 3 or 4 motorbikes with ~8 guys appeared. The guys shouted at us that we should stop, but we ignored them. Then they ran after as and shoutet at us. One of the other Austrian's sad that we don't need a guide and that we want to go up on our own.\n\nThis sentence was enough for one of them (I think it was the head of the gang) to pick up a stick and to start threaten us with it. A long \discussion\" with the guy started and he insisted that we have to buy 4 guides for about 13 people. One guide would cost 400.000 RP which is insane.\nThe other Austrians decided not to go and my friend and I still wanted to go. We even wanted to buy a guide, but not one of these guys obviously. Who wants to be guided by a guy that threatened you a few minutes ago?\n\nSo we went to another path with our bikes and were looking for the mafia's office so we could buy a guide. But there was no office. So we hiked up alone. We met nobody during the whole hike until we reached the top of the volcano. We met another group of hikers there, who were guided. Afterwards we found out that the path we took was the most difficult one (for us as semi experienced hikers it was still okay). Maybe that's why no guides would be there.\n\nAnyway the top of the volcano was nice, but nothing special. We went around the crater and went down the same path again. To be fair, we went on afternoon and people say that it's best at sunrise.\n\nAfterwards we were joking around about this beeing a mafia and everything. So I googled \"volcano mafia bali\" and found many blog entries and ratings about Mount Batur and that people where attacked (!!!) by the guides because they didn't want to pay. That is insane. That's why I think everyone should boycott this volcano and the mafia running it. I see that guiding is one of the few possible incomes they got down there, but that's to much.\n\nIf you ask me if you should go up this volcano, I would reply with \"defenitly not\"."
(60) I've climbed this mountain a few times with  , I have to get up early in the morning around 2:30 am, traveling from ubud about an hour, at about 3:30 am we started to walk to the top, about 2 hours to the top, above we could eat breakfast with bread, bananas, and a glass of Bali coffee, about 30 minutes we waited for sunrise, view from the top is very beautiful, I want to go back ....